She has made key contributions to HIV risk prevention research, particularly with rural African American youth and families. She has contributed significantly to the development of novel prevention interventions for under-served rural families.

“This is but the latest honor to be accorded to Velma Murry in recognition of her significant impact on African American families,” said Camilla P. Benbow, Patricia and Rodes Hart Dean of Education and Human Development at Peabody. “Her colleagues and I are deeply proud of her.”

Founded in 1991, the Society for Prevention Research is dedicated to advancing scientific investigation on the etiology and prevention of social, physical and mental health, and academic problems and on the translation of that information to promote health and well being.